Raza Hasan banned for two years after testing positive for cocaine

Raza Hasan

Pakistan left-arm spinner Raza Hasan has been banned from professional cricket for two years after testing positive for the consumption of cocaine. Tests were conducted at a World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) accredited laboratory in India after his samples were collected by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) while playing the Pentangular Cup in Karachi.

"During the period of ineligibility, he will not be entitled to participate in any capacity, in any cricket match or activity (other than authorised anti-doping education or rehabilitation programmes) authorised or organised by the PCB," a statement from the PCB said.

The PCB had set up a two-man committee seeking an explanation from Hasan on the matter, also giving him the chance to hire a lawyer and request a hearing within 14 days, but he chose not to do so.

Hasan, who has represented Pakistan in 10 T20Is and one ODI till date, isn’t the first cricketer to have been found guilty of testing positive for a banned substance. Australian legend Shane Warne was banned from international cricket for a year just prior to the start of the 2003 World Cup after testing positive for a banned diuretic.